UNDERSTANDING COMMON ALLERGIES
BY: JOHN DEO | ON:09TH JULY 2023 | COMMENT (25)
Introduction: Understanding common allergies is crucial for recognizing triggers, seeking appropriate treatment, and taking preventive measures
Here’s an overview of some common allergies and their key aspects:
1. Pollen Allergy (Hay Fever)
- Trigger: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.
- Symptoms: Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, throat irritation.
- Season: Spring and early fall.
- Preventive Measures: Stay indoors during high pollen counts, keep windows closed, use air purifiers, and take antihistamines as recommended.
2. Food Allergy
- Trigger: Specific foods like peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.
- Symptoms: Skin reactions, digestive issues, breathing difficulties, anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction).
- Preventive Measures: Read labels carefully, inform restaurants about allergies, carry an epinephrine auto-injector (for severe allergies).
“Food allergy is one of the least diagnosed and most prevalent causes of symptoms, especially depression.”– Dr. Sherry Rogers
3. Insect Sting Allergy
- Trigger: Stings from bees, wasps, hornets, or fire ants.
- Symptoms: Localized pain, swelling, redness, hives, itching; severe cases can lead to anaphylaxis.
- Preventive Measures: Avoidance of insect nests, wearing protective clothing, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector if allergic.